Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs (D) has announced that she will not participate in a debate against Republican challenger Rep. Andy Biggs (R-AZ). This decision has reignited discussions about the role of debates in statewide campaigns, particularly for incumbents. Hobbs previously declined to debate her opponent Kari Lake during the 2022 election, a strategy that ultimately led to her narrow victory by just over 17,000 votes out of more than 596,000 cast.
Hobbs's campaign argues that she has engaged with voters through over 100 open-press events and interviews this year, suggesting that direct voter engagement is more beneficial than participating in a debate, which they characterize as a platform for short soundbites. Biggs has criticized Hobbs's refusal to debate, making it a focal point of his campaign.
The dynamics surrounding debates are evolving, with some strategists suggesting that incumbents may view debates as more risky than rewarding. Democratic strategist Nick Smith noted that Hobbs's previous success without debating could influence her current strategy, especially given her lead in recent polls, where she is reported to be ahead of Biggs by 52% to 44%.
Experts have differing opinions on the necessity of debates. While some argue that they are crucial for demonstrating candidates' abilities under pressure, others believe that their impact on voter decisions is often overstated. The decline of local media coverage may also contribute to changing perceptions about the importance of debates, as candidates increasingly utilize social media and other platforms to communicate with voters directly.
As the election approaches, the effectiveness of Hobbs's strategy will depend on how Biggs can frame her refusal to debate and whether voters perceive it as a sign of weakness or a tactical decision.